By the SightShield team · · 3 min read
Why quotes vary so widely
Two home automation quotes for the same 3 BHK can differ several times over, and both can be honest. One may cover lights and fans in three rooms with wireless modules; the other may be a wired system for every circuit with motorised curtains, AC control, scenes and security integration. Understanding what drives cost helps you compare quotes and decide what you really want.
The main cost drivers
| Factor | Effect on cost |
|---|---|
| Number of circuits controlled | Each light, fan or socket circuit needs a channel |
| Wired vs wireless | Wired systems cost more but are most reliable; wireless suits retrofit |
| Touch panels vs modules | Designer panels cost more than modules behind existing switches |
| Dimming | Dimmers cost more and need compatible lights |
| Curtains and blinds | Motors and tracks per window add significantly |
| AC and geyser control | IR controllers or relay modules per unit |
| Security integration | Cameras, door phones, locks and sensors |
| Brand and platform | Premium platforms and design finishes cost more |
| New build vs retrofit | Retrofit needs more labour and wireless devices |
Typical scopes
- Starter: living room and master bedroom lights and fans, two or three scenes, voice control.
- Mid: all rooms’ lights and fans, geyser control, a few curtains, video door phone integration.
- Full: every circuit, dimming, curtains throughout, AC control, security, sensors and keypads.
Where to spend and where to save
- Spend on reliability: a stable hub, good Wi-Fi or wired backbone, and a UPS.
- Spend on the rooms you use most — living room and bedrooms.
- Save by using modules behind existing switches instead of designer panels.
- Save by motorising only the curtains that are hard to reach or used daily.
- Avoid paying for features nobody will use after the first month.
New build vs retrofit
In a new build, cabling and deeper switchboxes cost little extra and allow a wired, highly reliable system. In a finished home, wireless modules and smart switches avoid breaking walls but cost more per point and need good Wi-Fi or a mesh hub. The decision depends on stage of construction more than budget.
Home automation: new build vs retrofit →Running costs
- Some platforms charge subscriptions for remote access or advanced features.
- Batteries in wireless sensors and remotes need occasional replacement.
- Service visits for changes, new scenes or faults.
- Energy savings from scheduling AC, geysers and lights can offset some costs.
Phasing a project
Start with a platform that can grow: put the hub, network and wiring in place, automate the most-used rooms first, and add curtains, AC control and security later on the same system. Avoid buying devices from several ecosystems that do not work together.
An example
A family moving into a 4 BHK villa in Devanahalli split their automation into two phases. Phase one, during interiors: touch panels for all lights and fans, geyser control, a hub on a UPS, and conduits for future curtain motors. Phase two, a year later: motorised curtains in the living and master bedroom, AC control and integration with the video door phone — added in two days without breaking any walls.
Get a scoped quote
We visit, understand how your family lives, and quote room by room so you can choose what to automate now and later.
Home automation services →Quick answers
What decides home automation cost?+
Mainly the number of circuits, wired or wireless, panels or modules, curtains, AC and security integration, and the brand.
Is wired home automation more expensive?+
Usually, but it is most reliable and cost-effective in new builds.
Can I automate in stages?+
Yes, if you choose one platform and plan the hub and wiring for later additions.
Are there monthly fees?+
Some platforms charge for remote or advanced features; ask before choosing.
Is a smart home worth it in a flat?+
Yes for many families, especially for lights, fans, geysers and a few scenes; a full system matters more in large villas.
Does home automation save electricity?+
Scheduling ACs, geysers and lights can save energy, but savings depend on habits.